Tribute to Barry Clark

It is with an extremely heavy heart that I share the passing of an absolute legend and beloved leader yesterday, Barry Clark.

Over his remarkable 60 years with our company, Barry helped shape not only our business but also the culture and community we hold so dear. His unwavering commitment to integrity, his genuine care for people, and his steadfast support of every agent and staff member left a lasting impact that will never be forgotten.

Barry’s influence extended far beyond our office walls. He served at every level of real estate governance — as President of the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board, Chair of the Real Estate Council of BC, and Chair of the Real Estate Errors and Omissions Corporation. Through it all, he remained grounded, generous, and deeply connected to the people around him.

To so many, Barry wasn’t just a leader — he was a mentor, a role model, and a cherished friend. He was the heart and soul of Nanaimo Realty, and he truly loved every one of you who helped make it the company it is today. He looked forward to seeing us continue to grow and lead with the same values he championed. He constantly told me to make sure I keep it going. As he always said — and I can still hear him say it — “I don’t care what anyone says… we have the best staff and Realtors out there. We are the best company”And he meant it.

Barry had a big heart and a deep desire to see people succeed. In my very first meeting with him, he told me, “Don’t worry — we’ll take care of you.” That simple promise has stayed with me all these years. It captured the spirit of who Barry was — someone who genuinely cared, who led with compassion, and who believed in lifting others up. That promise is also the foundation I will continue to lead our company with. His example will remain a guiding light for us all.

Barry was known for his impeccable sense of style — always dressed to the nines — yet he never hesitated to don a pirate costume for a Polar Bear Swim or jump into community events with enthusiasm and humor.

Over the years, Barry shared many lessons with me that continue to guide how I live and work. I’d like to share just a couple:

·“There’s no free lunch — you have to get out there and work for it.”

·“Real estate is a people's business. Forget the Zoom, the texts, and the phone calls — you need to get in front of people. Where else do you get paid to talk to people?”

Barry will be missed beyond words. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled in all of us and in the incredible community he helped build.

Please join me in keeping Barry’s family, friends, and all those who loved him in your thoughts during this difficult time.

We will share further details as we learn more.

With deepest sympathy,

Travis Carmichael
Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty
Managing Broker/President